Biographical Note:

Elizabeth (Betsy) Eames of Carroll, New York married Orris Marsh, a general merchant. They settled in Napoli, Cattaraugus County, New York in 1832. He was originally from Dover, Vermont, where he was born in 1806. The Marshes had three daughters: Emily E., Fayette D., and H. Louisa. The business and family residence was situated at the four corners of the town center. Orris also served as postmaster and town supervisor for many years.

Scope and Content Note:

This group consists of 48 manuscript diaries kept by Elizabeth (Mrs. Orris) Marsh and daughter, H. Louisa from 1854 through 1911. These items contain brief descriptions of daily activities and events that relate to small town life in general. The entries frequently include comments on the weather, and vital information about friends and family, such as births and deaths.